[SOLVED] Help - Cannot start graphical install RHEL 5.3

[ragad3]

Hi,

I am a newbie, and have no kernel-level knowledge about linux. I tried to install RHEL 5.3 using the DVD and while starting the installation, the installer detected my graphics card correctly "ATI Mobility Raedon HD 3400 Series" but it could not start X Server... it failed and then I carried out the installation in Text mode, after finishing the installation, I logged in, but startx does not work either. Help!

Thanks. Maybe this problem has already been discussed somewhere, if so, sorry I did not search hard enough - please point me to it.

[MikeTbob]

Hello and Welcome.
Issue this command as root user

system-config-display

[waterhead]

The stock driver for the ATI Mobility graphics is called radeon. Either it is selecting the wrong driver, or the driver doesn't support your card.

You will need to manually edit the /etc/X11/xorg.conf file, and change the driver that it is using. This can be done using a terminal-based text editor. I will use vi to edit the file. For more info on vi, read this:

Use the UNIX Text Editor, vi

I am assuming that when X fails to start, that you are dropped to a terminal prompt. Log in as root, and give the root password. Then enter this command to edit the xorg.conf file.

vi /etc/X11/xorg.conf

Use the up/down and left/right arrows to navigate. Go down to the section that looks like this:

Section "Device"
        Identifier  "Videocard0"
        Driver      "radeon"
EndSection

Position the cursor under the "r" in radeon, the use the "x" key to delete the entire word one letter at a time. Now hit the "i" key, this will put you in Insert mode. Now type in "vesa" as the driver. To exit the Insert mode, hit the Esc key. To save and exit, use the Shift + ZZ key combination.

The Xserver should now be able to start, but at low resolution. You will then need to install a newer version of the driver. The only one that I know about is the proprietary driver available from ATI.

Graphics Drivers & Software

[ragad3]

Thanks a lot, both of you! I tried the first solution first and it failed a couple of times, saying it could not start and trying with a new configuration, it worked, and its fabulous! I appreciate you guys helping me out so fast!

[MikeTbob]

WOOT WOOT